1988 KDX question

[88KDX]

You guys might not believe this but I have the original piston and rings in my 88 and it runs fine and strong. I should probably do a compression check to check it. Anyway, I'm completely taking the bike apart right now to clean, grease, paint and fix things. I've had a clutch kit including plates and springs on my shelf for a couple years now I'm going to install also. I'm going to take a look at the piston but the service manual does not do a good job explaining how to replace the piston and rings. Is it difficult? The engine will be completely out of the frame. Should I even bother replacing the piston & rings. I guess it's got easy miles on it or the rings would be leaking by now right? Any thoughts would be great. Oh, I have no mods except boyesen reeds. Thanks

 

[MX175]

Yeah, after 15 years, piston and rings are good insurance. No, it is not difficult and there are several books at most libraries to help out. Perhaps a Clymer manual for '83-'88 KDX or the book by Eric Gorr. I am sure there are also websites that will walk you through it.

If you did not have any clutch trouble, let me know if you are getting rid of the springs and plates. I just got an '88 that I haven't seen yet, but my cousin says there is some clutch slippage and I need to repair it on the cheap. It doesn't sound like it is just an adjustment.

 

[88KDX]

MX 175, if the clutch plates and springs are in good shape you can have them.

As for the piston and rings I'm looking for very detailed instructions (I don't want to screw anything up). I'll start witht the clymer manual. Do I need any special tools like piston pin puller, or can I do it without it. Any tips would be great. And I guess wiseco piston and rings would be best for my bike?

 

[B]

Check ebay as Ive seen manuals for your model recently.

B

 

[JasonWho]

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[KDXKen]

I also have a 88 KDX200 every thing is stock and still running good.

 

[88KDX]

Won't a compression test tell me if the piston and rings are OK? I'd rather not not change them unless I have to.

Ken, Glad to hear your 88 KDX is stock and running good. Did you buy it new?